Chechen reconstruction paying off

There are more signs that the Russian government's reconstruction efforts in Chechnya are paying off. Hundreds of refugees have returned from Georgia, and it is hoped even more will come as the situation improves further.

Many refugees are being drawn by the promise of work. Chechen authorities are also providing new homes with supplies of water, heating and gas.

The Council of Europe praised reconstruction efforts in Chechnya after its delegation visited the republic in November.

The war in Chechnya forced thousands of refugees to leave the republic in search of safety.

Nearly 50,000 people were displaced during the war and in 2001 there were as many as 6,000 refugees in Georgia alone.